LAHAD DATU: The Marine Police Force (MPF) on Monday foiled an attempt to smuggle in 150 cartons of cigarettes via Pantai Merabung.
The seizure was made at 12.30am during an operation carried out by the MPF team following a public tip-off on smuggling activities in the area.
Sabah Region Four Marine Commander ACP Ahmad Amri Abd Rahman said the team spotted a boat in a suspicious condition and ordered it to stop for inspection.
The boat attempted to flee, prompting a pursuit by the team. It was later intercepted, however the skipper jumped into the sea and is believed to have escaped towards the rocky coastline.
Efforts to track down the suspect were immediately carried out but were unsuccessful.
“Inspection of the boat found 150 cartons of cigarettes of various brands, two gas cylinders, two pump engines and five empty jerry cans, believed to have been smuggled in from a neighbouring country.
“The total value of the seizure is estimated at RM51,910. All items were taken to the Lahad Datu Marine base for further action,” he said.
Ahmad Amri said the Marine Police would continue to intensify operations to curb smuggling activities in the state.
